Tribeny Rai's debut feature "Shape of Momo" will receive a theatrical release across India and Nepal on May 29 through Spirit Media, the production company of actor Rana Daggubati. The film, which won recognition at the Busan International Film Festival, has assembled a notable roster of executive producers including Payal Kapadia, Zoya Akhtar, and Reema Kagti.
The Himalayan setting of "Shape of Momo" places the narrative in a remote Sikkim village, where the story unfolds through the lives of its inhabitants. This regional focus reflects a broader trend in Indian cinema toward localized storytelling that centers marginalized communities and geographies often absent from mainstream Hindi film production.
The involvement of Kapadia, Akhtar, and Kagti signals the film's positioning within India's contemporary art-house cinema landscape. Kapadia directed the acclaimed Cannes selection "All That Breathes," while Akhtar helmed the Netflix series "Made in Heaven" and the film "Gully Boy." Kagti co-wrote and directed "Khaali Peeli." Their attachment as executive producers lends prestige and industry cachet to Rai's directorial debut.
Spirit Media's release strategy reflects growing investment in regional and independent cinema beyond the dominance of Hindi-language blockbusters. Daggubati, known for his Telugu film career and Bollywood appearances, has positioned his production company as a platform for distinctive voices and stories. The May 29 date positions "Shape of Momo" during India's summer theatrical season, though against substantial competition.
International festival recognition coupled with domestic producers of standing creates favorable conditions for limited but meaningful theatrical penetration. The film's Busan selection positions it within a global festival circuit that increasingly values Asian cinema made outside major production centers. The Nepal release alongside India's expansion reflects regional cultural affinities and shared Himalayan geography that informs the film's narrative universe.